Hillcrest Patriots Gear Up For Success

The Hillcrest Patriots are only a week away from kickoff against the Florence Falcons. Early in the pre-season, Hillcrest quarterback Bryson Kimbrough sat with me for an interview. Kimbrough expressed his thought process on this year's season and what he expects of himself, his teammates, and coaches.

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Keeping The Energy

Despite split opinions on Hillcrest moving up to 7A, the Patriots are tuning out the noise and getting to work. Jamie Mitchell, the head coach of the Hillcrest Patriots has an opportunity to start strong with his team, playing Florence High School. The Falcons ended last season with a 6-5 record. Kenny Morson was named the new head coach of the Falcons and will be walking into a hostile environment as he takes on an electrifying Hillcrest team.

Bryson Kimbrough (@bryson_kimbrough) • Instagram photos and videos

Players To Watch

Hillcrest has many talented players on their roster that will impact the season. Kimbrough is the face of the offense, but what other names will make headlines this season?

An essential piece to this offense is Junior wide receiver Kahden Smith, who made Noisey Sport's top 20 list of Alabama High school receivers for 2026 and took the number 12 spot on the West Alabama Preseason Top 25 list. Receiving offers from Mississippi State, Ole Miss, and many more; I believe it is safe to say this is a receiver to keep an eye on this season.

On the defensive side of the ball, defensive end Adrian Love, a Junior at Hillcrest High School, is a force to reckon with. Holding the rank of number 16 in the West Alabama Preseason Top 25 list; Adrian Love has received an offer from Liberty University of Lynchburg, Virginia, and Troy University.

Another offensive player to watch this season is Jordan Chambers-Smith a senior receiver for the Patriots. Chambers-Smith was also named on the West Alabama Preseason Top 25 list at rank 24.

The Patriots have 6 players in total that rank on the West Alabama Preseason Top 25 including Bryson Kimbrough as number Two, Defensive back Jamarion Bennett at number Nine, and Defensive lineman Kindal Moorehead at number 18.

The Hillcrest Patriots have a lot of talent on their squad and look to take on the competition at full throttle. I look forward to keeping up with the Patriots this year as they begin their journey in 7A football.

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